Warbird Information Exchange

In relation to my webpage http://www.ruudleeuw.com/n127hp-f27.htm about Fokker F.27 N1004 (aka N127HP), I received an interesting question regarding DC-3 N61696.
This bird is quite a mystery... read on:

----- Original Message -----
Subject: DC-3 Query
Ruud,
On this occasion, I am writing to you for your help on a DC-3 mystery!

Back in April 1975 I visited the US and logged a DC-3 N61696 at West Palm Beach, Florida operated on behalf of AUTEC, the US Navy organisation which has a test site in the Bahamas. This outfit is mentioned on your website in relation to Fairchild F-27 N1004/N127HP of Hawkins & Powers, and you had some input from people who were associated with it. It apparently was flown by Imperial Aviation on behalf of AUTEC.

I was looking at the new Air Britain DC-3 monograph, and they have been unable to identify the DC-3 N61696. They have the reg in their index, but no c/n !! Apart from the fact that I saw it myself, this DC-3 is also reported several times in Aviation Letter at West Palm Beach 1974 to 1976, and in January 1976 without titles, so maybe sold around then, but what is its c/n and what became of it?? N61696 is now on the FAA register as a Cessna 172, since apparently 1975 and this DC-3 must never have been on the FAA register or Air Britain would have the details.

So, I wonder if I could have your help with this mystery. It is incredible that a DC-3 used on a government/navy contract would not be registered! I wonder if the people who sent in information on the F-27 would know anything about the DC-3, which aircraft it was, what became of it?

Any help much appreciated.

Best wishes from Ireland

Karl